In this programme each of the five Tudor reigns, from Henry VII to Elizabeth I, is represented by a large-scale antiphon -
several dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the 'mystic rose' - by Taverner, Lambe, White and Tye.
Interspersed between these works are the movements of William Byrd's four-part mass: an affectionate tribute by the last
great Tudor master to his illustrious heritage. The programme ends with Tallis's magnificent Gaude gloriosa.